Story perspectives

Advocates Push for Stronger Hate Crime Laws in SC

9/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Jarvis McKenzie, a Black man from South Carolina, advocates for hate crime laws following a July 17 attack.
Jonathan Felkel targeted McKenzie, firing a rifle and using racial slurs.
Felkel faces charges under Richland County's hate crime ordinance, which has limited penalties.
South Carolina lacks comprehensive hate crime legislation, despite local laws.
Business leaders back the legislation, especially after George Floyd's death in 2020.
The state House approved the bill in 2021, but it is stalled in the Republican-led Senate.

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Story summary

Jarvis McKenzie, a Black man from South Carolina, advocates for hate crime laws following a July 17 attack.
Jonathan Felkel targeted McKenzie, firing a rifle and using racial slurs.
Felkel faces charges under Richland County's hate crime ordinance, which has limited penalties.
South Carolina lacks comprehensive hate crime legislation, despite local laws.
Business leaders back the legislation, especially after George Floyd's death in 2020.
The state House approved the bill in 2021, but it is stalled in the Republican-led Senate.